Digital skills will be embedded across all aspects of the curriculum for the first time this term to better prepare pupils for life in 21st century Wales.

Changes to the curriculum mean digital skills will be used through all parts of a pupil’s schooling and not just isolated to specific information and communications technology (ICT) or computer science classes.

She said: “This radical new approach is about embedding digital skills and knowledge in everything our pupils do as they progress through school.

'More than just using computers'

“No longer will such issues be isolated in weekly computer classes; instead these vital skills will be applied across our curriculum.

“Let me be clear, this is more than just using computers, the changes we are bringing in will equip our pupils with the digital skills to take-on real world challenges and use these skills throughout their life.

“Our teachers will increasingly be using digital skills into their lessons, alongside literacy and numeracy, as they are now fundamental to the modern world.

“This is the first element of the new ‘Curriculum for Wales’ and we have listened to experts and business who said young people should be equipped with digital skills to succeed in the workplace and bring business the digital skills it needs.”

All inclusive

The DCF is designed for all children, including those with additional learning needs, and all schools are being encouraged to familiarise themselves with its content and consider how best to deliver it in practice.

The framework was designed by teachers from ‘digital pioneer schools’, specially selected in July 2015 to work with experts and Welsh Government officials.